Articles
The Dawn of Faith in St. Peter's Church, Tesophenyu
Opinion | Articles | Benjamin Chang | 10-Aug-2026
As the pioneer cradle of Catholicism among the Rengma people, Tesophenyu Village holds a unique and revered place in the history of the regional Church. Looking back to the historical years of God's grace, the community reflects with profound joy and grateful hearts for the abundant blessings bestowed upon both those who are still with us and the faithful departed who have gone home to the Lord. Just as every tree planted in a garden takes root in its own appointed season under the watchful care of a gardener, so too did the seeds of faith germinate in the Rengma hills in 1966. At that time, under the guidance of Reverend Father Paul Bernick, SDB—Parish Priest of Kohima—a visionary and devout Catholic officer, the late Mr. Kevipralie Paulus Belho from Christ the King Parish, was posted to the Tseminyu sub-division as an Agricultural Inspector in the newly created state of Nagaland.
Mr. Kevipralie Paulus Belho brought his Catholic faith directly into his professional responsibilities. His genuine humility and Christian witness deeply moved and influenced the local villagers, quickly building a strong sense of trust and solidarity between them. Inspired by his example, respected village leaders—including the late Neghüwa Nicholas Magh, the late Mezechwu Methodius Jemu, the late Lhotsü-o Lazarus Magh, and the late Nphunseng Hubert Tsela—embraced the Catholic faith with vibrant zeal. Alongside numerous families, they transitioned away from traditional animistic practices to embrace the Gospel.
A cherished milestone of this early evangelical effort occurred on December 28, 1966, when a historic slide show titled "King of Kings" was presented at the Government Primary School complex (the present-day site of the Community Health Centre). Led by the late Kevipralie Paulus Belho, the late touring catechist Suosahie Philip, and the late Reverend Father Mathew, the event was brought to life for the local audience through the live translation of Shri C.T. Rengma. His crucial role in bridging the language gap earned lasting admiration from the community. Gathered together to witness the visual presentation for the very first time, scores of young boys and girls watched in wonder—marking a memorable turning point in the spiritual journey of Tesophenyu Village.
Building St. Peter's Church: The Pillars of Tesophenyu
Following those initial gatherings, the nascent Catholic community set out to build their first dedicated place of worship. A modest, thatch-roofed chapel was constructed near the site of today's Tesophenyu Upper Baptist Church complex. This endeavor was made possible through the great initiative and generosity of early pioneers—particularly the late Neghüwa, Lhotsü-o, and Mezechuwü—who contributed locally harvested raw materials and spent countless days rendering free manual labor. To finish the structure, discolored corrugated galvanized iron (CGI) sheets were brought in all the way from Kohima to serve as roofing. Once the humble house of prayer was ready, the simple Catholics of Tesophenyu began meeting regularly for communal prayer and worship. Hymns and prayers were typically offered in Tenyidie. The faithful who gathered during those early days included Walathong, Nphunseng, Nenghüwa, Lotsü-o, Lukekhe, Thonpfu, Kita-o, Mezechwü, Tesipfü, Tekhi, and many others—devout souls who are remembered today as the foundational "Pillars" of St. Peter's Church in Tesophenyu. Among them, Shri K. Ashao Magh was the youngest member, often leading the congregation in prayer alongside the late Neghüwa Nicholas, who served as the local catechist and managed the overall responsibilities of the chapel. In those early years, keeping track of time presented a unique challenge. The late Lukekhe Lawrence, who was the only literate member of the congregation at the time, was entrusted with calculating the days to ensure the community observed the Sabbath correctly. Before his system was established, members often lost track of Sundays, tracking time through traditional methods like bending or breaking small bamboo strips (Amvü). Local tradition fondly recalls a lighthearted moment involving the late Kita-o, who was tasked with ringing the chapel bell. On one crucial Sunday morning, Kita-o completely forgot his duties and was already well on his way to his family's jhum fields when fellow villagers had to call him back to ring the bell for service—a warm reminder of the simple, unpretentious spirit that defined the early days of faith in Tesophenyu.
The First Mass and the Planting of Devotional Life
Sustained by the steadfast enthusiasm of the faithful and constant encouragement from early leaders, the small Tesophenyu community reached a momentous spiritual milestone in May 1967: the celebration of their very first Holy Eucharist. Held at the site of the present Community Health Centre (PHC), the Holy Mass was offered by Reverend Father Pranky, a priest hailing from Mao, Manipur. Lhouzie Lucy assisted in preparing the altar and liturgical arrangements for the sacred occasion. Though the congregation eagerly awaited the Eucharist, Holy Communion was not yet distributed that day, as the pioneer Catholics were still preparing to receive the Sacrament of Baptism. The solemnity of the celebration was enriched by a group of young Mao students who accompanied the priest. Among them, Mr. Sani played an accordion, filling the air with heavenly music that deeply moved the congregation—a choir whose harmonious praise remains fondly remembered in the spiritual history of the parish.
Following the First Mass, essential devotional items—including crucifixes, candles, and rosaries—were brought into the community to establish the core prayer traditions and visible signs of the Universal Church. Late Kevipralie Paulus Belho and Mr. Lhoungulie, a Fishery Inspector, personally guided the new believers in basic Catholic prayers and practices, teaching them the Sign of the Cross, the Our Father, the Hail Mary, the Glory Be, and the recitation of the Holy Rosary. Neither long distances nor the severe logistical challenges of the era could deter these dedicated leaders from journeying to be with the nascent community. Today, as the community reflects on fifty golden years of growth, the parish honors and remembers these pioneers with deep gratitude for the seeds of faith they so courageously planted in this mission land—seeds that have since grown into a flourishing and fruitful tree.
The Red-Letter Day: Foundation and Growth in Tesophenyu
In the history of St. Peter's Church, Tesophenyu, November 19, 1967, stands out as a true red-letter day—the defining moment when the structural foundation of the local Catholic faith was firmly established. The day resonated deeply with the biblical promise of Matthew 16:18, translated into the local tongue: "Peter! You are rock, and on this rock I will build my Church" ("Pitor! Na ano wa nu Hi ano miwi Hi kemehu jen saten"). On this historic occasion, the Sacrament of Baptism was solemnly administered by Reverend Father Paul Bernick, SDB, in the presence of Right Reverend Hubert D'Rosario, Bishop of the Dibrugarh Diocese, and the dedicated pioneers of the region. Late Kevipralie Paulus Belho and Lhouze-ü Lucy stood as godparents, guiding 211 individuals as they officially embraced the Catholic faith. The late Neghüwa Nicholas had the distinction of receiving the very first baptism, followed by the rest of the congregation. Adding to the joy and jubilation of the day, a brass band party led by Reverend Father O'Hara, SDB, traveled all the way from Wokha Parish to celebrate the milestone alongside the new believers. The momentum of faith continued into the following year. In 1968, through the thoughtful initiative of Philip Suosahie and his wife, Alhou-ü Albina, the community was privileged to welcome the late Lhousilalie Louis Sorhie from Christ the King Parish in Kohima. Arriving just before Holy Week, Mr. Sorhie stayed in the village until November, residing with the family of the late Lhotsü-o at T. Khel. During his brief yet impactful stay, Mr. Sorhie organized regular catechism and singing classes for the parish, teaching the congregation sacred hymns. Among these, the Tenyidie translation of "Abide with Me" ("Aze Balie") left an enduring impression, remembered fondly by the community as a comforting melody that bound their early fellowship together.
Overcoming Trials: Freedom of Religion and Reconciliation
As the nascent Catholic community grew, it was not without its share of trials and tribulations. In due course, opposition and resistance began to surface across various corners of the village. Rooted largely in widespread ignorance and illiteracy regarding Catholic doctrine, rumors and false propaganda were actively spread in an attempt to unsettle the early believers and undermine their steadfast resolve. During this challenging period, Shri K. Ashao Magh of Tesophenyu stepped forward to defend the fledgling community. With great patience and perseverance, he brought the issue directly before the Home Ministry of the Naga National Council (NNC). Through his diplomatic efforts, the matter was settled once and for all, securing the recognition of religious freedom for the local population and affirming the right of the Catholic faithful to practice their beliefs without harassment. Looking back, the Catholic Church of Tesophenyu holds no resentment toward those early detractors, understanding that their resistance stemmed from misunderstanding rather than malice. Today, those early divisions have given way to harmony. Tesophenyu Village stands in perfect unity, embracing a spirit of mutual respect, secularism, and shared understanding across all walks of life.
The Early Educational Seed: Don Bosco School, Tesophenyu
Recognizing the vital role of education in the holistic development of the region, the early Catholic pioneers took steps in 1971 to establish a nursery school named Don Bosco School in Tesophenyu Village. The land for this visionary endeavor was freely and generously donated by the family of the late Neghüwa Nicholas Magh. Their noble intention was to make Catholic education accessible to all children of the upcoming generation, regardless of their religious faith, caste, or background. The institution was initially run under the guidance of the Parish Priest of Christ the King Parish, Kohima, offering classes from Kindergarten through Class 2. The foundational teaching staff comprised Mr. Medohol Modestus Viswentso Angami—who also served as a touring catechist appointed by the Diocese of Dibrugarh—his cousin Miss Kechole Agatha, who holds the honor of being the first female teacher in the school, and Sir Michael.
The initial cohort of students included Shegato Jemu, Er. Enakha Ignatius Kath, Cheni Magh, Sonha Magh, the late Akuku Magh, Kaghalo Semy, Ghobiyi Tep, Kiku Semy, Kazun Kez of Kandinu, Ruzhüthong Mesung, Gwanyelo Tep, and Agwalo Mesung. Alumni would later fondly recall their vibrant schoolyard, complete with a seesaw, hanging swings, ring-throw games, and courts for volleyball and basketball. Despite its promising start and rich recreational environment, the school faced intense opposition and resistance from non-Catholic groups in the area. Due to these ongoing social pressures, church leaders made the difficult decision in 1974 to relocate Don Bosco School from Tesophenyu to the present-day site of St. Joseph's Parish in Tseminyu. The sudden departure of this pioneering institution caused a significant temporary setback to the local literacy rate and educational continuity in Tesophenyu, even as it paved the way for the growth of Catholic education in nearby Tseminyu. A Cherished Legacy: The Creation of the Tesophenyu Quasi-Centre
In conducting historical research and personal interviews with early members, it becomes strikingly clear that no formal proof is needed to validate the joyous, decades-long journey of St. Peter's Church in Tesophenyu. Whether under the spiritual care of Christ the King Parish in Kohima during its early days or later under St. Joseph's Parish in Tseminyu, the true history of the Community is etched in the sweet memories, shared sacrifices, and wonderful fellowship of the humble souls who walked this path together. A major milestone in the spiritual maturity of the Tesophenyu mission occurred on June 29, 2013, when the parish reached a new level of pastoral independence. On this day, Rev. Fr. Binoy John Kannasseril was appointed as the very first priest-in-charge of the newly established Tesophenyu Quasi-Centre. This historic designation marked a fulfilling step forward for the community, honoring the faith and resilience of the pioneer generations while opening a bright new chapter for the local church.
Leaders, Literature, and the Golden Milestones
Among the early pioneers of the Rengma mission, the late Medohol Angami is fondly remembered as the apostle of the region. Stationed at Tesophenyu, his evangelical zeal led directly to the establishment of the Catholic community in Kandinu Village, while he simultaneously tended to the spiritual needs of believers across Tseminyu, Lazami, and Nsunyu. By 1975, the community reached a major milestone with the completion of a new church building, named St. Peter's Church, standing proudly on the present hillock. The church was inaugurated on the eve of the arrival of Mr. Yhunkhemvü Peter Tep, a touring catechist assigned to Kandinu Village, who was warmly escorted by a group of Tesophenyu youth. Yet, this era of growth was shadowed by a profound loss. In 1974, the community mourned the untimely passing of Shri Neghüwa Nicholas Magh. As a primary pillar of the early church, his sudden death cut short his dream of seeing the full flourish of the seed he had helped plant.
In the wake of this loss, Mr. Runga Robert Tsela stepped forward to shoulder the heavy responsibilities of local catechist alongside Mr. Peter Tep. Mr. Tsela made immense contributions to the parish, particularly in the realm of religious literature. He spearheaded the establishment of a Night School, which became a vital hub for imparting community prayers and sacred music, and he holds the historic distinction of translating the very first Catholic prayer book and hymnal into the Northern Rengma dialect.
As the years progressed, the physical church was further developed into a permanent reinforced concrete (RCC) structure. On this elevated hilltop, the completed building was solemnly blessed and inaugurated in 1982 by the Rt. Rev. Abraham Alangimattathil, SDB, Bishop of Kohima. The landmark ceremony was attended by Shri J.B. Jasokie, the then Chief Minister of Nagaland, and was realized through the pastoral leadership of Rev. Fr. Sebastian Mainchira, SDB, then Parish Priest of Tseminyu, alongside the energetic coordination of the late Gerald Gwafu Magh, an active youth leader of the parish.
Conclusion
From those humble beginnings in 1966, the seed of faith planted in the Rengma hills has matured into a deep-rooted, flourishing tradition that continues to sustain the spiritual and communal life of the region. The pioneering journey of Tesophenyu Village—ignited through the combined dedication of early clergy, lay leaders like the late Mr. Kevipralie Paulus Belho, and the welcoming hearts of the local community—stands as an enduring testament to divine providence and human zeal.
Over the decades, this initial spark transformed into a vibrant Catholic identity, nurturing generations in faith, education, and moral leadership. The story of Tesophenyu is not merely a record of historical milestones, but a living legacy that honours the sacrifices of the faithful departed while empowering the present community. As the cradle of Rengma Catholicism, Tesophenyu Village remains a beacon of hope and devotion, inspiring future generations to guard this sacred heritage, deepens their spiritual roots, and continue bearing fruit in service to God and neighbour.
(The writer is a priest of the Diocese of Kohima. The piece was chronicled based on the account of Mr David L. Jemu)